The upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit is slated to happen on October 15 and 16, 2024, in Islamabad, Pakistan – while an important event for regional cooperation and diplomacy, is not without significant challenges.

Despite China’s strong position within the SCO, the summit faces considerable hurdles, largely stemming from Pakistan’s current domestic instability and deteriorating security environment. The political unrest in Pakistan, coupled with heightened security threats, casts a shadow over the proceedings, raising questions about the future of both regional cooperation under the SCO framework and Pakistan’s ability to host such a high-profile event amidst internal turmoil.

At the heart of Pakistan’s challenges is the intense political turbulence that has gripped the nation. Pakistan has been engulfed in a fierce political battle between the sitting government and opposition forces, primarily supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan’s removal from office has led to widespread protests and civil unrest, with his followers demanding his reinstatement or, at the very least, fresh elections. The protests have frequently devolved into clashes with security forces, further destabilizing the country and creating an environment of uncertainty and chaos. This domestic instability risks........

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